Desiderata
Go placidly amid the noise and haste,
and remember what peace there may be in
silence.
As far as possible without surrender
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to
others,
even the dull and ignorant; they too have their
story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations
to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become
vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons
than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your
plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however
humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of
time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the
world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there
is;
many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere
life is full of heroism.
Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of
all aridity and disenchantment
it is perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully
surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden
misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark
imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and
loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with
yourself.
You are a child of the universe,
no less than the trees and the stars,
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it
should.
Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be.
And whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life,
keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken
dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
English translation attributed to Max Ehrmann,
1927
